LEROY-GRIDLEY USD 245 TEACHERS HANDBOOK · LEROY-GRIDLEY USD 245 TEACHERS HANDBOOK 1 ......

LEROY-GRIDLEY USD 245 TEACHERS HANDBOOK

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Introduction

The information provided in this handbook is intended to serve as a guide to the members

of the teaching staff of LeRoy-Gridley USD 245. This booklet does not attempt to

answer all questions but shall serve as a guide for the daily operation of the school. If

you have questions, please feel free to contact me concerning them. Items in italics are

student items that are placed in this handbook for teacher reference.

Four requirements for a good school are:

A pleasant atmosphere in which every child feels valued and successful

A faculty concerned with developing students who delight in learning

Programs that respond to each child’s individual needs and yet challenges them to

grow intellectually; and

The development of a sense of responsibility for assignments, conduct, rights of

others, and care of property.

Equal Opportunity Employer -- LeRoy-Gridley Unified School District No. 245 is an

equal opportunity employer and shall not discriminate in its employment practices and

policies with respect to hiring, compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of

employment because of an individual’s race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or

national origin.

Discrimination Complaints – Discrimination against any individual on the basis of race,

color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or religion in the admission or access to, or

treatment or employment in the district’s programs and activities is prohibited. Bobbi

Williams, Superintendent, LeRoy, Kansas, (620-964-2212), has been designated to

coordinate compliance with nondiscrimination requirements contained in Title VI of the

Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of

the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Complaints of discrimination should be addressed to an employee’s supervisor or to the

compliance coordinator. Complaints of discrimination against the superintendent should

be addressed to the Board of Education.

Philosophy

The primary purpose of the school district is to provide students with a controlled

environment in which they can systematically encounter, analyze, judge, and evaluate a

variety of planned experiences and situations; ultimately enabling them to gain an overall

general education. All activities and assignments should assist to meet this goal.


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Philosophy of the Teaching Staff

We, the teachers of Unified School District No.245, believe that we should help each

student to grow and develop to the limit of his / her potential, in his / her unique way, for

independent, successful living. We believe in providing a varied curriculum that will

give each student the opportunity to develop basic skills, to develop mental, social,

emotional, aesthetic, physical, and moral qualities, and to strive for scholastic excellence.

We believe that all school activities and learning should relate directly with the issues

identified by youth as vital. We believe the combination of academic, cultural, and social

experiences should serve as maturing forces toward helping the student to develop

professional leadership, self-satisfaction, and service. We believe that education is a

lifelong process and that it is a cooperative undertaking in which the school, home, and

community participate.

The educational objective of the teaching staff of USD 245 include the training of young

people in the following ways:

To think logically and independently;

To express themselves clearly;

To develop consumer and civic responsibilities;

To develop abilities in creativity, reasoning, and comprehension;

To prepare themselves to enjoy economically, morally, and aesthetically their

leisure time;

To direct career exploration;

To develop critical judgments and effective attitudes;

To develop an appreciation of our cultural heritage;

To develop habits conducive to sound mental and physical health;

To consider the constructive and intelligent use of man’s environment;

To develop a feeling of security and to achieve self realization in a complex

society;

To develop a respect for property and human rights; and

To develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline.

Individualized assignments are given as needed. Grades K, 1, and 2 should have no

homework other than long term memory work, short daily reading assignments, weekly

spelling words, and an occasional enrichment activity. Grades 3 and 4 should add no

more than one additional assignment to the grade 1 and 2 guidelines. Homework for

grades 1 through 3 should probably not require more than 15 – 20 minutes per day.

Grades 4, 5, and 6 can probably handle an average of 30 minutes of work per day.

Parents should be notified if children consistently do not hand in homework assignments.

In the secondary grades teachers should provide some study time at the end of each

period for students to organize their approach to the assignments. Consideration should

be given to school activities scheduled between the assignment and its due date.


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ACADEMICS Grading: It is important for teachers to report to parents on their child’s progress at

school. The grades a student receives on his / her report card should be based on the

amount of work requested, the difficulty of the assignment, the ability of the student and

the effort on the part of the student to perform his / her work. The following grading

scale shall be used for our students:

Percent Letter Grade

90 – 100 A

80 – 89 B

70 – 79 C

60 – 69 D

0 –59 F

Because of the diversity among curriculum and grade level requirements,

in both subjective and objective evaluations, it is the teacher’s

responsibility to determine the weight that should be assigned based on

time and effort for each daily assignment, special assignment, theme or

report, special project, chapter test, unit test, quarterly test, semester test,

etc.

A Superior, scholarship strong, exceeding requirements of the

instructor. Initiative, contributions exceeding assignments,

showing independent resourcefulness. Improvement is

marked and growing.

B Scholarship strong and complete, meeting all requirements.

Initiative good when stimulated by some desirable

achievement. Improvement, showing progress.

C Scholarship average. Rarely meeting assignments and

showing evidence of need of encouragement. Initiative

uncertain. Improvement, very neutral but not objectionable.

D Below average, yet passing. Scholarship not meeting all

assignments and requirements of instructor. Initiative

lacking. Attitude indifferent. Improvement not noticeable.

F Definitely unsatisfactory, below the expectations of the

teacher to such an extent that the pupil is not getting

enough out of the class to justify his being given credit for

having taken the course

I Incomplete and must make up within a specified time,

depending upon the circumstances but never more than

one quarter.


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Student Information Program (PowerSchool):

All teaching staff will use the PowerSchool program as the grade book and

communication tool for the district. All grades must be entered into the PowerSchool

program on a regular basis (at a minimum at least once a week) so that parents and

students can check their academic progress. Grades for eligibility purposes will be

checked at 1:00 p.m. on the last school day of the week, therefore grades should be

entered prior to that time each week.

In addition, attendance must be entered into the program on a daily basis. This is not an

option. It is recommended that this be accomplished during a teachers planning period

and again at the end of the school day before logging off the program.

The administration expects that staff shall use the PowerSchool program as a lesson plan

tool as well. If assignments are posted on the WEB site parents and students can check to

see what is assigned and complete or work on the assignments when they are absent or

absentminded.

This is a very productive tool that the Board of Education and administration want to see

and expect to see used by all staff members on a regular basis. Failure by staff to use this

program will result in a negative notation on evaluations and possible Board of Education

action being taken.

Make-up Work:

Classes should be taught in a progressive manner and in a logical sequence. One lesson

may be the groundwork for all succeeding lessons. It is left to the discretion of the

teacher to determine specific requirements for make-up work in each class. An expected

requirement would be conferring with the student outside of regular class time (before,

during, or after school), to help bring the student up to date. It is the responsibility of the

student to inquire about assignments and to complete make up work. A reasonable

amount of time for make up would be interpreted as the number of days absent plus one

day.

It is expected that teachers and students will work cooperatively in completing make up

work when a student is absent from school. Teachers are to see that required make up

work is promptly completed and turned in following a student’s absences. The student is

responsible to promptly contact teachers, get assignments missed and complete the work.

All teachers are required to have on file with the building principal a plan for make up

work after absences. These plans are to be presented to students at the beginning of the

school year.


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Promotion / Retention: We should all try to keep in close contact with the parents of all

students who are in danger of failing. It is important for this contact to begin early in the

year and to continue at regular intervals. The first consideration must always be the

welfare of the student. Each student must be evaluated carefully on his or her own

merits. We must all devote effort to help the student who is being retained to see the

reason for his/her retention. It is the responsibility of each classroom teacher to keep the

principal and parents informed of students who may fail a class. Do not wait until the last

week to be making contact with parents. The Board acknowledges that the awarding of

marks and decisions relative to promotion or retention of the children is a serious

responsibility of the teachers. It is the Board’s duty to support its professional staff in

this duty.

Special Education – Special education services are provided through a joint effort of

USD 245 and the Coffey County Special Education Cooperative. Proper procedures shall

be followed in referring students for services. It is imperative that we follow these

procedures. If you do not know the proper procedure check with your principal or

the special education teacher in your building.

Testing Program: The district educational testing program shall consist of multiple

assessments. These assessments shall include, at a minimum, individual teacher subject

matter tests, district group achievement tests, and state required tests. This includes

nationally normed tests such as the MAP which will be used periodically during the year

to measure growth, Kansas Assessment tests, specific curriculum and criterion reference

tests and other tests of a routine nature.

Classroom Tests – One major classroom test per grading period will be filed by the

teacher and kept on hand until the beginning of the next school term. A blank copy of the

test will be given to the principal with the lesson plans. Students will have reviewed the

test, seen the results and grade, and had any questions answered before the test is filed.

The filed test may be used at parent – teacher conferences. Administrators will review,

evaluate, and analyze these tests.

Certain subjects dealing with manual skills will be exceptions to this rule. Music classes

at higher levels probably would not have a written test; however at a lower level certain

music terms could be tested with a written test. Industrial Arts usually deals with hands-

on tasks, however safety rules, types of tools and procedures could and should be tested.

Physical education might require a pre and post skills test or a knowledge test of rules

and how to plan the game. Some areas of Family and Consumer Science classes might

also fall under this exception.


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Progress Reports: A progress grade report will be sent home with students in grades K –

5 during the 5th

week of the nine-weeks period. Students in grades 6 – 12 will receive

progress grade reports at this same time. Parents and students are encouraged to use the

PowerSchool program to check grades on a daily or weekly basis. Teachers will be

responsible for submitting these grades through the PowerSchool program on the day

before midterm progress reports are to be sent to parents. These grades will be mailed to

all families.

Whenever a student is falling behind or is failing to meet the course objectives, the

teacher shall inform the student’s parents or guardians. Students who are failing will

receive reports on a weekly basis.

Report Cards: The report cards will be mailed home to parents on the fourth school day

after the end of a nine-weeks period. Reasons for deficiencies and / or failure shall be

noted. If Parent – Teacher conferences fall within this time period or very close to it,

report cards will be handed out at these conferences first, then mailed following the

conferences to those parents who did not attend a parent – teacher conference.

Again, teachers will be responsible to submit grades to the office through the

PowerSchool program by the third day following the end of the grading period.

Incomplete grades should be made up as soon as possible and may not be carried more

than nine weeks. If at the end of a nine weeks period the incomplete has not been made

up, the grade should be recorded as a failure.

Eligibility Report Procedure: All Students in grades 6 – 12 who have grades of two

D’s or an F at the end of any week cumulative from the start of the semester will receive

a deficiency report. The principal will use PowerSchool to check grades but staff may

add comments to the report prior to it being mailed to parents.

Confidentiality

1. Student Information – Confidential student information, whether written or oral,

shall be handled in a confidential manner and be discussed only with the

parents/guardians of the particular students and the appropriate school personnel

in the appropriate setting. Appropriate school personnel includes those

employees who have a “need to know”. Violations of this rule, which violate the

privacy rights of students, could result in disciplinary action being taken against

the employee, including termination.

2. Personnel Information – Confidential personnel information, whether written or

oral, shall be handled in a confidential manner and be discussed only with the

appropriate school personnel Appropriate school personnel includes those

employees who have a “need to know”. Violations of this rule, which violate the

privacy rights of personnel, could result in disciplinary action being taken against

the employee, including termination.


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Sexual Harassment – Sexual harassment will not be tolerated in the school district.

Sexual harassment of employees or students of the district by board members,

administrators, certified and support personnel, students, vendors, and any others having

business or other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited.

Sexual harassment shall include, but not be limited to, unwelcome sexual advances,

requests for sexual favors, and other verbal and physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term

of an individual’s employment;

Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the

basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or

Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an

individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or

offensive working environment.

No district employee shall sexually harass, be sexually harassed, or fail to investigate or

refer a complaint of sexual harassment for investigation. Complaints of sexual

harassment by employees will be promptly investigated and resolved. Initiation of a

complaint of sexual harassment will not adversely affect the job security or status of an

employee, nor will it affect his or her compensation or work assignment. Violation of

district policy shall result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Employees who believe they have been subjected to sexual harassment should discuss the

problem with their immediate supervisor. If an employee’s immediate supervisor is the

alleged harasser, or if the employee is uncomfortable discussing the issue with his / her

supervisor, the employee should discuss the problem with the federal compliance

coordinator, superintendent, or any principal. Employees who do not believe the matter

is appropriately resolved may file a written complaint under the district’s discrimination

complaint procedure. Confidentiality shall be maintained throughout the complaint

procedure, in so far as possible.

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should

discuss the alleged harassment with the principal, guidance counselor, or another

certified staff member. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in

this meeting, the student may initiate a complaint under the district’s discrimination

complaint procedure.

The filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting sexual harassment will not reflect upon

the individual’s status nor will it affect grades, future employment or assignments.

Confidentiality will be maintained through out the complaint procedure as far as possible.


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Racial Harassment

The board of education is committed to providing a positive learning and working

environment, free from discrimination, including harassment on the basis of race, color or

national origin. Racial harassment shall not be tolerated in the school district. Racial

harassment of employees or students of the district by board members, administrators,

certified and support personnel, students, vendors, and any others having business or

other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited.

It shall be a violation of school policy for any student, employee or third party to racially

harass any student, employee or other individual associated with the school. It shall

further be a violation for any employee to discourage a student from filing a complaint, or

to fail to investigate or refer for investigation any complaint lodged under the provisions

of this policy.

The district encourages all victims of racial harassment and persons with knowledge of

such harassment to report the harassment immediately. The district will promptly

investigate all complaints of racial harassment and take prompt corrective action to end

the harassment.

Employees who believe they have been subjected to racial harassment should discuss the

problem with their immediate supervisor. If an employee’s immediate supervisor is the

alleged harasser, or if the employee is uncomfortable discussing the issue with his / her

supervisor, the employee should discuss the problem with the federal compliance

coordinator, superintendent, or any principal. Employees who do not believe the matter

is appropriately resolved may file a written complaint under the district’s discrimination

complaint procedure. Confidentiality shall be maintained throughout the complaint

procedure, in so far as possible.

Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to racial harassment should

discuss the alleged harassment with the principal, guidance counselor, or another

certified staff member. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in

this meeting, the student may initiate a complaint under the district’s discrimination

complaint procedure.

The filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting racial harassment will not reflect upon

the individual’s status nor will it affect grades, future employment or assignments.

Confidentiality will be maintained through out the complaint procedure as far as possible.


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BULLYING POLICY

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education prohibits acts of harassment or bullying. The

board of education has determined that a safe and civil environment in school is

necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. Harassment or

bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a

student’s ability to learn and school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment.

Demonstrations of appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and

refusing to tolerate harassment or bullying is expected of administrators, faculty, staff,

and volunteers to provide positive examples for student behavior.

Harassment or bullying is any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, or physical act

(including electronically transmitted acts – i.e. internet, cell phone, personal digital

assistant [pda], or wireless hand help device) that is reasonably perceived as being

motivated either by any actual act or perceived characteristic, such as race, color,

religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and

expression; or a mental, physical, or sensory disability or impairment; or by any other

distinguishing characteristic. Such behavior is considered harassment or bullying

whether it takes place on or off school property, at any school sponsored function, or in a

school vehicle.

Harassment is conduct that meets the following criteria:

Is directed at one or more pupils;

Substantially interferes with educational opportunities, benefits, or programs of

one or more pupils;

Adversely affects the ability of a pupil to participate in or benefit from the school

district’s educational programs or activities because the conduct, as reasonably

perceived by the pupil, is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive as to

have this effect; and

Is based on a pupil’s actual or distinguishing characteristics (see above), or is

based on an association with another person who has or is perceived to have any

of these characteristics.

Bullying is conduct that meets the following criteria:

Is directed at one or more pupils;

Substantially interferes with educational opportunities, benefits, or programs of

one or more pupils;

Adversely affects the ability of a pupil to participate in or benefit from the school

district’s educational programs or activities by placing the pupil in reasonable fear

of physical harm or by causing emotional distress; and

Is based on a pupils actual or distinguishing characteristics (see above), or is

based on an association with another person who has or is perceived to have any

of these characteristics.


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The LeRoy-Gridley board of education expects students to conduct themselves in a

manner in keeping with their levels of development, maturity, and demonstrated

capabilities with a proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students, school staff,

volunteers, and contractors.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education believes that standards for student behavior must

be set cooperatively through interaction among the students, parents and guardians, staff,

and community; members of the school district, producing an atmosphere that encourages

students to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect

for self and others, as well as for district and community property on the part of students,

staff, and community members.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education believes that the best discipline is self-imposed,

and that it is the responsibility of staff to use disciplinary situations as opportunities for

helping students learn to assume responsibility and the consequences of their behavior.

Staff members who interact with students shall apply best practices designed to prevent

discipline problems and encourage students’ abilities to develop self-discipline.

Since bystanders support of harassment or bullying can support these behaviors, the

district prohibits both active and passive support for acts of harassment or bullying. The

staff should encourage students to support students who walk away from these acts when

they see them, constructively attempt to stop them, or report them to the designated

authority.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education requires its school administrators to develop and

implement procedures that ensure both the appropriate consequences and remedial

responses to a student or staff member who commits one or more acts of harassment or

bullying. The following factors, at a minimum, shall be given full consideration by

school administrators in the development of the procedures for determining appropriate

consequence and remedial measures for each act of harassment or bullying.

FACTORS FOR DETERMING CONSEQUENCES

Age, development, and maturity levels of the parties involved

Degree of harm

Surrounding circumstances

Nature and severity of the behavior(s)

Incidences of past or continuing pattern(s) of behavior

Relationship between the parties involved

Context in which the alleged incident(s) occurred


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FACTORS FOR DETERMINING REMEDIAL MEASURES

Personal

Life skill competencies

Experiential deficiencies

Social relationships

Strengths

Talents

Traits

Interests

Hobbies

Extra-curricular activities

Classroom participation

Academic performance

Environmental

School culture

School Climate

Student-staff relationships and staff behavior toward student

General staff management of classrooms or other educational environments

Staff ability to prevent and de-escalate difficult or inflammatory situations

Social – emotional and behavioral supports

Social relationships

Community activities

Neighborhood culture

Family situation

Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a student or staff member who

commits one or more acts of harassment or bullying may range from positive behavioral

interventions up to and including suspension or expulsion, in the case of a student, or

suspension or termination in the case of an employee, as set forth in the board of

education’s approved code of student conduct or employee handbook.


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Consequences for a student who commits an act of harassment or bullying shall be

unique to the individual incident and will vary in method and severity according to the

nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the student’s history of

problem behavior and performance, and must be consistent with the board of education’s

approved code of conduct. Remedial measures shall be designed to: correct the

problem behavior; prevent another occurrence of the behavior; and protect the

target (victim) of the act. Effective discipline should employ a school wide approach

to adopt a rubric of bullying offenses and the associated consequences. The

consequences and remedial measures may include, but are not limited to the examples

below.

EXAMPLES OF CONSEQUENCES

Admonishment

Temporary removal from the classroom

Loss of privileges

Classroom or administrative detention

Referral to disciplinarian

In-school suspension during the school week or the weekend, for students

Out of school suspension

Legal action

Expulsion or termination

EXAMPLES OF REMEDIAL MEASURES

Framing the aggressive behavior as a failed attempt to solve a real problem or

reaching a goal. The adult assists the misbehaving student to find a better way to

solve the problem.

Restitution and restoration

Transformative conferencing / restorative justice

Peer support group

Corrective instruction or other relevant learning or service experiences

Supportive discipline to increase accountability for the bullying offense

Supportive interventions, including participation of an intervention and referral

Service team, peer mediation, etc.

Behavioral assessment or evaluation, including, but not limited to: a referral to a

Child study team as appropriate.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education requires the principal and / or the principals

designee to be responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation

of this policy. In doing so, the principal and / or the principal’s designee shall conduct a

prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident. The investigation

is to be completed within three school days after the report or complaint is made.


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The LeRoy-Gridley board of education prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person

who reports an act of harassment or bullying. The consequences and appropriate

remedial action for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by

the administrator, after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education prohibits any person from falsely accusing

another as a means of harassment or bullying. The consequences and appropriate

remedial action for a person found to have falsely accused another as a means of

harassment or bullying may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and

including suspension or expulsion. Consequences and appropriate remedial action for a

school employee found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment or

bullying shall be disciplined in accordance with district policies, procedures, and

agreements.

The LeRoy-Gridley board of education requires school officials to annually disseminate

this policy to all school, staff, students, and parents, along with a statement explaining

that it applies to all applicable acts of harassment and bullying that occur on school

property, at school sponsored functions, or on a school bus. The chief school

administrator shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on

harassment and bullying with students and staff.

The school district shall incorporate information regarding the policy against harassment

or bullying into each school employee training program and handbook.


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RECORDS

1. Personnel Records – Personnel files maintained by the district shall be

confidential and in the custody of the appropriate supervisor and / or the

superintendent. Employees have the right to inspect their files during regular

business hours upon proper notice and under the supervision of an administrator.

2. Required Records – Each certified employee must have the following records /

forms on file with the Clerk of the Board before the first day of employment:

a. Employment application

b. KPERS enrollment form (if employee is eligible)

c. W-4 withholding certificate

d. Social Security number

e. Loyalty oath or affirmation

f. Health form (if working directly with students)

g. Driver’s license and driving record (if required for position)

h. INS form (proof of identity)

i. Current teaching certificate

j. College credentials

k. College transcripts for all earned college credits

3. Certificate/License – Certified staff must have a current certificate/License on

file. A paycheck will not be issued to any certified staff member whose

certification is not current. Application for certificate renewal is the responsibility

of the certified employee, not the administration.

4. Address Change – All address changes must be made with the Clerk of the Board

before the end of the pay period in which the changes took place.

5. Student Records – All student records are to be treated as confidential and

primarily for local school use unless otherwise stipulated. The general public shall

not be allowed to inspect a student’s personal record file. The custodian of

student records shall disclose the student’s educational records only as provided

for by law and in policy. Only school officials with a legitimate educational

interest may inspect student records without permission from the parent / guardian

or eligible student. For the purpose of this policy, “school official” means

teacher, administrator, other certified employee or the Board of Education.

“Legitimate educational interest” means the school official must participate in

discussions involving an identifiable student involving the student’s educational

interests, progress, grades, disciplinary action, discussions of eligibility for

athletics or other activities, or honors or awards involving a student.


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End of Year Reports: At the end of the school year staff members have a variety of

reports that must be completed prior to checking out for the summer. These reports

include but may not be limited to:

1. Inventory – This report needs to be updated yearly with information including the

number of items in each category, when purchased (if known), value (actual if

know or estimated if unknown), and location of the items.

2. Student Records – This would include grades and attendance information plus any

information on students who fail classes.

3. Requisitions for the following year – All requisitions must be submitted for the

following year by April 15. Any requisition submitted following this deadline

will receive the lowest priority when ordering. This will allow the principal and

superintendent time to study the requisitions and ask questions and get

clarification before staff leave for the summer. Requisitions MUST contain the

following information:

a. Vendor name and address

b. Items

c. Reference number

d. Estimated costs including estimates on shipping

e. Each requisition must be prioritized

Child Abuse: Any district employee who has reasons to know or suspect that a child has

been injured as a result of physical, mental, or emotional abuse or neglect or sexual

abuse, shall promptly report the matter to the building principal and shall also report the

incident to the local SRS office. The building principal will assist the staff member in

this reporting, but it shall be the responsibility of the staff member who suspects the

abuse to make the report.

District employees shall not contact the child’s family or any other persons to determine

the cause of the suspected abuse or neglect. It is not the responsibility of the school

employee to prove the child has been abused or neglected.

Vandalism: Employees shall report any vandalism to their immediate supervisor.

ACTIVITIES

School Calendar – The school calendar for many school events has been completed. All

events of each organization must be scheduled and approved before announcement of the

event. Be sure your program is listed on the official activities calendar. Do not schedule

any night rehearsal or activity until the date and hour has been cleared by the building

principal. School events for the next school years should be placed on the school

calendar as soon as possible. All known activities for the next school year should be

placed on the calendar prior to May 1. This will allow for better communication within

the school and community and will also allow for staff to prepare a calendar of school

activities for distribution prior to the start of the next school year.


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Facility Scheduling: All scheduling at the school, including the use of the gym and

kitchen will be done through the principal’s office.

Church Night and Activity Scheduling: USD 245 has accepted the tradition that

Wednesday evenings be designated as church night and we do not schedule events,

contests, rehearsals, etc. on Wednesday nights. Church cannot dictate our schedule,

however, it is well to be mindful of this institution’s place in forming the morals and

values of the students through our respect of this tradition. The only exception is

activities scheduled by the KSHSAA or other state agencies which we have no control

over.

All activities, such as fund raising projects, plays, etc. must be scheduled outside school

time and must be approved by the building principal. Rehearsals or practices must be

placed on the school calendar in the office at least one week prior to the event.

No activity or athletic practice will be scheduled for Sunday and any Saturday practice

must have the building principals approval before it is scheduled.

Activity Sponsors and Building Security: A staff member responsible for an activity

shall be present and directly supervising students under his / her direction at all times.

When the activity is over, the sponsor shall be certain all lights are turned off and that all

doors and windows are properly secured.

All students must be under the supervision of a teacher while in the school building. No

students are to be in the building after school hours unless they are with a teacher or have

been cleared through the office.

It will be a general practice not to allow students to work in the building unsupervised.

Please do not allow a student to remain in the building after you leave. Do not allow a

student access to keys to the building or to areas of the building to work or remain in the

building unsupervised. ANY STAFF MEMBER WHO LOANS KEYS TO STUDENTS

TO ENTER THE BUILDING MAY LOSE THE RIGHT TO HAVE KEYS.

If you allow a student access to the building or area of the building, or if you know a

student is unsupervised in the building, and you fail to ask him / her to leave the building

you accept full responsibility for his/her actions in case of damage and / or injury.

All articles of value are to be locked in a secure area. All money shall be turned into the

office daily to be placed in the vault. Employees are reminded to keep personal items

secure, especially purses and handbags.

No merchandise should be ordered for students until money has been collected for that

merchandise. Receipts will be given for all money received.


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Crowd Control at School Sponsored Activities: Disorder and disruption of school

activities will not be tolerated, and persons attempting to endanger the safety of students,

school personnel or other adults; to damage school property; to interfere with school

activities or the educational process; shall be held accountable.

The school administration and staff are responsible for handling any problem caused by

adults or students. The final decision for determining if assistance is needed at a

disturbance, disorder or demonstration is the responsibility of the school principal. In the

absence of the principal, the determination shall be made by the person designated to be

in charge of the building or activity. The superintendent shall be notified of any serious

problem at school.

Staff must work together to maintain a safe and orderly environment at school activities.

Staff are not asked to be the front line in handling problems but should not avoid

situations or ignore problems or potential problems. Report any unusual situations to the

building administrator or the staff member in charge of the activity.

EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

Appropriate Use of Equipment and Supplies – Use of equipment and supplies is for

the performance of official and approved assignments only. Use of district equipment or

supplies for personal use is prohibited without permission from the superintendent.

When materials and supplies are used for personal use, arrangements must be made with

the office for repayment.

Computers – Use of or access to district computers and computer software is limited to

district employees and students. Use of computers is for the performance of official and

approved assignments only. Use of district computer equipment or software for personal

projects is prohibited without prior permission of the employee’s supervisor.

Only software purchased by the district may be loaded onto district computers. Software

licensed to the district shall not be used on computers not owned by the district. District

software shall not be copied for personal use.

Employees shall not use electronic communications, including e-mail and the internet, to

harass staff, students or other individuals and must abide by the internet use agreement

that students must sign.

No Right to Privacy -- employees shall have no expectation of privacy or restricted

access to any information generated during the course of their official duties or entered in

any district computer. Employees waive any right to privacy in e-mail messages and

consent to the access and disclosure of e-mail messages by authorized employees. All

employees must use appropriate language in all messages.

Any e-mail or computer application or information in district computers or computer

systems is subject to monitoring by the administration.


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Employees shall only use passwords or other encoding or security mechanisms as

assigned by the district computer systems administrator or other official designated by the

Board. The use of a password does not affect the employer’s right to monitor. All forms

of electronic communications are monitored by the employer to ensure the systems are

only being used for official purposes.

Ownership -- Computer materials or devices created as part of any assigned district

responsibility undertaken on school time shall be the property of the district. The

Board’s rules governing ownership of employee produced computer materials are on file

with the Clerk and are available upon request.

Secure files -- All employees must secure files containing confidential student

information.

Internet – Inappropriate use and / or transmission of any material in violation of any

United States or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to

copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by a trade

secret.

Copying and Duplicating -- The copyright laws of the United States make it illegal for

anyone to duplicate copyrighted materials without permission. Severe penalties are

provided for unauthorized copying of all materials covered by the act unless the copying

falls within the grounds of “fair use” doctrine. Any duplication of copyrighted materials

by district employees must be done with permission of the copyright holder or within the

bounds of “fair use” as set forth in Board policy.

Under the fair use doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is

permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching,

scholarship or research. If duplicating or altering a product is to fall within the bounds of

fair use these four standards must be met for any of the purposes:

1. The Purpose and Character of the Use – The use must be for such purposes as

teaching or scholarship and must be nonprofit. Fair use would probably allow

teachers acting on their own to copy small portions of work for the classroom, but

would not allow a school system or an institution to do so.

2. The Nature of the Copyrighted Work – Copying portions of a news article may

fall under fair use but not copying from a workbook designed for a course of

study.

3. The Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used – Copying the whole of a

work cannot be considered fair use; copying a small portion may be. AT the same

time, however, extracting a short sequence from a 16 mm film may be far

different from a short excerpt from a textbook, because two or three minutes out

of a 20 minute film might be the very essence of that production and thus outside

fair use. Under normal circumstances, extracting small amounts out of an entire

work would be fair use, but a quantitative test alone does not suffice.


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4. The Effect of the Use Upon the Potential Market for or Value of the

Copyrighted Work – If resulting economic loss to the copyright holder can be

shown, even making a single copy of certain materials is an infringement, and

making multiple copies can result in greater penalty.

5. Prohibited Practice – No one may make multiple copies of a work for classroom

use if it has already been copied for another class in the same institution; make

multiple copies of a short poem, article, story, or essay from the same author more

than once in a class term or make multiple copies from the same collective work

or periodical issue more than three times a term; make multiple copies of works

more than nine times in the same class term; make a copy of works to take the

place of an anthology; and may not make a copy of “consumable” materials such

as workbooks.

6. Permitted Practice – A teacher may make for use in scholarly research, in

teaching or in preparation for teaching a class a single copy of the following: a

chapter from a book; an article from a periodical or newspaper; a short story,

short essay or short poem (whether or not from a collected work); a chart, graph,

diagram, drawing, cartoons or picture from a book, periodical or newspaper; may

make (for classroom use only and not to exceed one per student in a class)

multiple copies of the following: a complete poem (if it has fewer than 250 words

and is printed on not more than two pages), an excerpt from a prose work (if the

excerpt has fewer than 1, 000 words or 10 percent of the work, whichever is less)

and one chart graph, diagram, cartoon or picture per book or periodical. A library

may, for interlibrary loan purposes make up to six copies a year of a periodical

published within the last five years, make up to six copies a year of small excerpts

from longer works, make copies of unpublished work for purposes of preservation

and security and make copies of out of print works that cannot be obtained at a

fair price.

7. Guidelines for Off Air Recording of Broadcast Programming for Education

Purposes – A broadcast program may be recorded off air simultaneously with

broadcast transmission (including simultaneous cable retransmission) and retained

for a period not to exceed the first 45 consecutive calendar days after the date of

recording. Upon conclusion of such retention period, all off air recordings must

be erased or destroyed immediately. Off air recordings may be used once by

individual teachers in the course of relevant teaching activities and repeated once,

only when instructional reinforcement is necessary, in classrooms and similar

places devoted to instruction within a single building, cluster or campus, as well

as in the homes of students receiving formalized home instruction, during the first

ten consecutive school days in the 45 calendar day retention period. “School

days” are school session days – not counting weekends, holidays, vacations,

examination periods or other scheduled interruptions – within the 45 calendar day

retention period. Off air recording may be made only at the request of and used by

individual teachers and may not be regularly, recorded in anticipation of requests.

No broadcast program may be recorded off air more than once at the request of

the same teacher, regardless of the number of times the program may be

broadcast. A limited number of copies may be reproduced from each off air

recording to meet the legitimate needs of teachers under these guidelines. Each


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such additional copy shall be subject to all provisions governing the original

recordings. After the first ten consecutive school days, off air recordings may be

used up to the end of the 45 calendar day retention period only for evaluation

purposes by the teacher, i.e. to determine whether or not to include the broadcast

program in the teaching curriculum. They may not be used for student exhibition

or any other non-evaluation purpose, without authorization. Off air recordings

need not be used in their entirety, but the recorded programs may not be altered

from their original content. Off air recordings may not be physically or

electronically combined or merged to constitute teaching anthologies or

compilations. All copies of off air recordings must include the copyright notice

on the broadcast programs as recorded.

8. Computer Software – District employees may make a back up copy of computer

programs as permitted by current Federal Law. Back up copies may be used for

archival purposes only and all archival copies shall be destroyed in the event that

continued possession of the computer program should cease to be rightful. When

software is used on a disk sharing system, efforts shall be made to secure this

software from copying. Illegal copies of copyrighted programs shall not be made

or used on school equipment.

Ordering Procedures – All purchases must be made through the principal’s office.

Teachers must secure permission from the principal before making a purchase to be

charged to the school activity fund. For district funds, the superintendent must approve

the order. Activity fund purchases will be processed in either the Junior or Senior High

School office. Please allow ample time for purchase orders to be prepared.

Do not pay cash for merchandise unless approved by the principal

Always return the signed copy of the purchase order and a signed ticket

Do not give students permission to charge items unless they have a

purchase order

Neither the school district nor the activity fund is obligated to

reimburse a student or teacher who makes a purchase without prior

approval and a purchase order has been issued.

Requisitions – Under normal circumstances, a teacher will be required to fill out a

purchase requisition to be submitted to the principal for his / her action before making a

purchase to be charged to the school. The requisition shall include such information as

vendor and address, catalog number, price, copyright date, and such additional

information that will insure your getting the specific items desired.

Vehicle Request – Requests for transportation shall be presented to the building principal

who will then submit those requests to the superintendent who will then contact the bus

contractors. This means that last minute requests for transportation will probably not be

honored. Activity sponsors and coaches should submit requests for transportation at the

beginning of their activity season, as far as possible.


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SAFETY AND SECURITY

School Safety Hotline – The 1999 Kansas Legislature appropriated funds to assist in the

establishment of a school safety hotline. This hotline is a toll free number available 24

hours a day 365 days a year to give students, parents, and community members the

opportunity to report any impending school violence. This hotline gives students,

parents, teachers, and members of the community the opportunity to anonymously report

any potential violence. The Kansas School Safety Hotline number is 1-877-626-8203.

Emergency Closing -- When the superintendent believes the safety of students is

threatened by severe weather or other circumstances, parents and students shall be

notified of school closings or cancellations by announcements made over the following

radio and television stations if they can be contacted and they broadcast the information:

Radio Station AM 580 WIBW / 94.4 Country in Topeka

Television Station WIBW Channel 13 in Topeka

No calling system other than the above referenced stations and the Coffey County

Emergency Notification System (IRIS) will be used to notify staff. Please be sure to sign

up for this notification if you have not already done so. See instructions for signing up for

the IRIS system at the end of this handbook.

In addition the school closure announcement will be posted on the school’s Student

Information program at usd245.powerschool.com and through the Coffey County

Emergency Notification System. Staff members will need to sign up for this service

through the Coffey County Website. Information has been provided at the district

in-service.

In the event school needs to be called off because of the weather, we will try to do it the

night before or before school starts. If we are already in attendance we will stay the day

unless blowing snow starts to close our bus routes. The weather is very difficult to

predict, conditions at 5:00 a.m. can change dramatically by 7:00 a.m. School closings

will be made on existing conditions and the immediate forecast.

If we dismiss school after students have arrived at school students are encouraged to call

their parents to notify them that they will be returning home. At times the line to use the

telephone may become long, but students are asked to be patient and make the call home.

This will give parents notice that you are on the road, and will give them an idea of when

you will be home. In most instances it will not be necessary for students who live in

town to make this call, however those students are welcome to use the phone to call

home.

If school is dismissed after children have arrived for school, the teachers will be informed

directly from the office. After the buses have left with the students, the teacher should

stay with any remaining students until the parents pick them up or other adequate

supervision has been arranged.

If the school is closed due to inclement weather, there will be no practices. The buildings

will not be open to students.


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Safety Practices – All employees shall engage in safe lifting, climbing and carrying

practices. Employees shall ask for assistance when needed.

Security – Any district employee who believes any of the following has occurred at

school, on school property or at a school sponsored activity shall immediately report this

information to local law enforcement and the building principals:

An act which constitutes the commission of a felony or a misdemeanor; or

An act which involves the possession, use or disposal of explosives, firearms or

other weapons as defined in current law.

Instruct the students of your classes with fire drill regulations and fire drill routines, and

be sure the regulations are posted in your room. Also review tornado drill procedures.

State law requires one fire drill per month and three tornado drills per year. Do not allow

running or pushing. Teachers are required to participate in the drills and should carry

grade books with them, close the classroom door behind them, and be prepared to

account for all children under their supervision.

We will be having the required number of fire drills and tornado drills during the school

year. In addition we will have a minimum of three school safety drills where the

buildings will be secured and students will be in their assigned classrooms except for

passing periods and lunch (also recess will be allowed at the elementary schools).

USD 245 may use any means to ensure that our schools are secure and safe for our

students. This could include but not be limited to video cameras in the school or buses,

locked exterior doors, and locked classroom doors.

Keys – The building principal is responsible for issuing keys and maintaining a current

and accurate list of all people who have been issued keys. No keys shall be duplicated

without permission.

Keys should be turned in to the appropriate building principal when an employee is no

longer employed by the district or is assigned to another building. Unless arrangements

are made to the contrary, staff will turn in their keys to the building principal at the end of

each school year.

Keys are not to be loaned to anyone. Any lost keys shall be reported immediately to the

principal so measures may be taken to maintain safety and security and to protect district

property. The employee responsible for the keys may be required to make any restitution

necessary to secure the building(s).


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RECESS

The State Department of Education allows fifteen minutes for recess in mornings and 15

minutes again in the afternoon to be counted as a part of the elementary (K-grade 4)

school curriculum. The KSDE specifies that neither recess can be in conjunction

with the lunch period. Class must be in session immediately before and directly after

recess is schedules.

Supervision

1. Elementary classes may be combined for the purpose of supervision. One teacher

may supervise more than one class at recess. It is strongly recommended that a

firm and rigid schedule of playground supervision be established by the teachers

and approved by the principal. Classes of compatible age may be combined for

supervision, such as grades one and two or grades three and four. Classes with a

wide rage span should not be combined.

2. Teachers freed from playground duty will use this extra time as a planning period

or a work period. Errands will not be run during this period of time.

Denial of Recess

1. It is strongly advised that recess not be denied to any student. The KSDE has felt

justified in specifying recess as an essential part of the curriculum.

2. The denial of recess might motivate some students to complete their schoolwork

or to make up overdue assignments, but an excess of denials of recess to any one

student should prove the theory is not working. Also, an excess of denials of

recess to any one student might be prejudiced against the slow learner, the Title

student, or other students.

3. Excluding a student from recess is not prohibited, but it is strongly recommended

that other motivation or consequences be explored.

a. Often, extenuating circumstances contribute to the student’s being behind

in critical areas of study. If help can be provided more conveniently at

other times, the teacher is expected to follow common sense guidelines;

b. As a disciplinary measure – denial of recess should not be used as a first

line of disciplining but is considered as an effective disciplinary step. If

this measure of discipline does not correct the problem as expected then it

should not be used further, and other measures should be explored.

4. Denial of recess to students will not exceed 15 minutes per day. Teachers will not

abuse this line of discipline. They are to keep a log which lists the students who

were denied recess, the date, the amount of time denied, and the reason for such

action. This log will be turned in weekly with the lesson plans.

5. A student remaining in the room during recess will be supervised.


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DRUG FREE SCHOOLS

Statement – The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by

school employees on school premises or as part of any school activity is prohibited.

As a condition of employment in the district, employees shall abide by the terms of the

Board policy on drug free schools / workplace.

Employees shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, sell, possess, or use

controlled substances in the workplace. Any employee who is convicted under a criminal

drug statute for a violation occurring at the workplace must notify the superintendent of

the conviction within five days after the conviction.

Within thirty (30) days after the notice of conviction is received, the school district will

take appropriate action with the employee. Such action may include the initiation of

termination proceedings. Alternatively, or in addition to any action short of termination,

the employee may be required to participate satisfactorily in an approved drug abuse

assistance or rehabilitation program as a condition of continued employment. The

employee shall bear the cost of participation in such a program.

This is intended to implement the requirements of the federal regulations promulgated

under the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, 34 CFR Part 85, Subpart F. It is not

intended to supplant or otherwise diminish personnel disciplinary actions which may be

taken under existing Board policies or negotiated agreement.

Tobacco Use – The use of tobacco products by any person, in any form, is prohibited in

any school building, owned, leased, or rented by the district, that is used for pupil

attendance purposes, or in any school vehicle used for student transportation. Tobacco

use is prohibited on all school grounds and at school functions where students are

participating on school grounds or other property. Further, the use of tobacco products in

the presences of students is forbidden at school or at school activities.

MISCELLAEOUS

Accidents: Any school employee who discovers an accident on school property shall

report the accident to the building principal or designated representative. If the person

requires medical treatment, the employee shall:

Send for medical help;

Make the individual as comfortable as possible while waiting for competent

medical assistance to arrive;

Notify the principal or designated representative

If a student is injured the principal or designee shall make an attempt to contact

the student’s parent / guardian; and

Fill out an accident report.

If the employee present is qualified to administer first aid, that aid may be given.

Qualified employees are those employees who have successfully completed an approved

Red Cross First Aid program, or the school nurse.


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If an employee is injured on the job, the supervisor should be contacted immediately and

a report shall be made within ten days. The supervisor will then be responsible for

contacting the district clerk, who will in turn supply the injured employee with the

appropriate forms to complete.

The employee must keep copies of all doctor’s orders and provide a file copy to the

district clerk. The employee must inform the doctor or hospital that he / she is covered

by the district Workers Compensation Plan.

Absences & Substitutes – All substitute teachers will be secured by the building

secretary or principal. If at all possible the request for a substitute should be made well in

advance and in writing when the teacher knows he / she is going to be absent. In case of

illness or emergencies staff members should contact the principal as soon as possible.

If someone other than the principal is needed to secure substitutes that information will

be available via an email notice in advance.

Teachers will not contact substitutes unless directed to do so by the principal. Teachers

should provide a complete step by step plan for substitute teachers and leave lesson plans

and other directions regarding any grading of papers or assignments they are to do.

STAFF APPEARANCE – All staff members are expected to dress in professional attire.

This does not mean a suit and coat or a dress, but slacks, etc are expected. The only

deviation from this would be on casual days such as the last day of the week, playday’s,

etc. This expectation is for all staff members. Exceptions will be made on an individual

basis and will be approved by the building principal.

STAFF CONDUCT – How you conduct yourself in the school setting has a direct effect

on how students conduct themselves. We do not allow students to use profane language

and you should not be using it as well. We all are capable of communicating effectively

without the use of profanity. Staff are not to use this type of language at anytime when

you are in a school setting. YOU ARE AN EXAMPLE. We often hear from students

when they have been sent to the office for using profanity that staff use it all of the time.

Additionally, we cannot permit students to act in an inappropriate manner, remember that

WHAT YOU PERMIT, YOU PROMOTE.

Classroom Appearance -- Teachers are directly responsible for their equipment and

therefore, classroom appearance is part of the teacher’s evaluation. A seating chart is

required in the main office for substitutes. Classrooms will be locked when not in use.

Do not loan keys to students. Students should never be allowed to mark or deface school

property. Teachers will watch the student chairs closely in the room. Report marring of

desks, furniture, walls, etc. to the principal’s office immediately and then do something to

correct the situation. It is imperative that teachers keep their classrooms in order. Do not

allow your room to become unattractive to students or visitors.


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Communications – A weekly bulletin will be published in each attendance area for

teachers and parents. The bulletin is a helpful aspect in communicating activities and

schedule changes. Items to be included in the weekly bulletin should be in the principal’s

office by noon on the Thursday or the next to last day of the week, of the week before the

event is scheduled. All changes in schedule shall have the approval of the principal

before the change is made. When approved by the building principal, notes, attendance

center announcements or other school related information may be sent home with

students. This bulletin will also be listed on the PowerSchool program.

Extracurricular Duties – It is an accepted fact that our profession carries with it the

obligation of sponsorship of extracurricular activities. All teachers have some activity

sponsorship, but absolute equality of extracurricular load is impossible. Many occasions

will require sponsorship by faculty members not normally assigned as sponsors. We

would like to encourage all teachers to attend the all school functions even though you

may not be the sponsor of the activity. An interest in all school activities shown by

faculty attendance will help our school spirit.

Do not allow meetings or activities at any time or place without approval or without

faculty sponsorship. Allow freedom of organizations and planning activities so as to

exercise the talents of the students, but do not hesitate to stop any objectionable activities.

Sponsors should make it a part of their schedule to meet with their organization officers

prior to meetings to outline programs or business. Activities sponsors should check the

treasurer’s book each month to make certain that the treasurer is maintaining an accurate

set of books. They should also have the secretary keep accurate minutes of all

organization meetings and business.

Conflict of Interest – District employees are prohibited from engaging in any activity

which may conflict with or detract from the effective performance of their duties.

No school employee will enter into a contract for remuneration with the district other

than a contract for employment unless the contract is awarded on the basis of competitive

bidding.

Outside Employment – The Board reserves the right of exclusive access to the

professional services of certified employees in accordance with the terms of the contract.

Certified employees shall not engage in outside employment which impairs the

effectiveness of their instructional services.

Criminal Conviction – Any employee convicted of a felony or driving under the

influence, or who enters a plea of guilty or diversion agreement, must notify the

superintendent within five (5) days after the conviction or diversion agreement.

Termination – Willful or consistent violation of board policy may result in disciplinary

action up to and including termination.


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Transportation of Students – Activity Trips – Sponsors of activities must ride the bus

with their respective groups. If more than one bus load is going on a trip, a person in

charge will be provided for each bus. Students must ride in the vehicle to which they

have been assigned – both to and from the activity. If a student’s parents / legal guardian

contact the principal or his / her designated representative personally at the site of the

activity, the student may be allowed to ride home with the parents / legal guardian. The

student sign off form must be signed by the parents / legal guardian prior to taking the

student off of the bus. If a parent / legal guardian personally contacts the principal either

by personal visit or by sending the sign off form to the school (with the understanding

that a follow up phone call from the principal may occur) at least four hours prior to the

activity bus scheduled leaving the school for the activity, they may sign a permission

form which would allow their child to return home with another adult, such as a

grandparent, an adult neighbor, or the parent of another like age student. Students will

not be allowed to return home with siblings, boyfriend / girlfriend, etc. This designated

adult would then need to sign the form prior to leaving the activity.

Only adult drivers will be permitted to drive a car on a school sponsored trip.

When students are transported on school buses there are certain minimum regulations that

should be followed for the comfort and safety of all. The nature of the trip will usually

warrant additional directives from the bus sponsor.

Each student will be provided a seat at all times when the bus is in motion;

Sit in the seat and face the front;

Never put arms or head out of the window;

When the bus stops at a stop sign or railroad crossing, everyone should be quiet so

the driver may hear any warning signals;

There should be no scuffling of any kind on the bus;

All papers, etc, should be placed in the trash container. Sunflower seeds and

beverages in glass containers shall not be consumed on the bus. Be sure the bus is

cleaned upon returning from a trip;

When buses return from an activity trip, students will be allowed to use the

telephone to notify parents and may wait in the building until someone arrives to

take them home.

Telephone Use – By Staff – District telephones are for school business only. The use of

the phone for personal business during preparation times and during the lunch period

should be kept to a minimum. This is a business phone and should be used as such.

Teachers and students will not be called out of class for phone calls unless an emergency

arises. Telephone messages will be relayed to staff and students as soon as possible.

Keep long distance calls as short as possible. Personal long distance calls must be made

collect or with the use of your own calling card. Cellular phones should not be used

during school hours. Telephones have been installed in all classrooms but staff should

remember that this is still a business phone and therefore use should be confined to

business matters.


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By Students – Students should not be excused from the classroom to use the telephone

unless it is very necessary and pertains to school business. The student must have a pass

from the teacher when coming to the office to use the phone. Students are not to use cell

phones during the school day except for the lunch period. Phones that are turned on

during class and ring or are used should be picked up and turned into the building

principal.

Fundraising – All student sales projects or student fund raising shall require the

principal’s prior approval. All money collected from students from sales projects, or for

other reasons, must be turned into the office each day.

Supervision of Students – Teachers are responsible for supervising students during

school and at school-sponsored activities during the school day. Routine curricular

activities which may extend beyond the school day, such as field trips, are considered an

extension of the school day. Supervision of students outside the school day will be

agreed upon through the supplemental duty and / or extracurricular duty schedule.

Students will be under the supervision of appropriate school personnel at all times when

they are under the jurisdiction of the school. Activities sponsored by the school shall

include appropriate supervision.

Lounge Benefits – A teachers lounge will be available for staff use during the school day

during preparation periods or during the duty free lunch period.

District monies will not be used to purchase coffee, tea, hot chocolate nor the accessories

that go with these items. Custodians, food service personnel, or maintenance personnel

will not be used to make coffee or tea for the employees. Custodians will clean and

maintain the lounges and work areas as usual, but they will not be responsible for

cleaning the coffee or tea containers.

Custodians, food service personnel, or maintenance personnel will not be responsible for

generating a requisition or purchase order for lounge supplies, nor will they personally

purchase these supplies.

Food and drink will not be consumed in any carpeted classrooms.

Retention After School – when it is necessary to retain a student after school hours,

either for disciplinary reasons or for extra help from a teacher, the student and parents

should have one day’s notice of this action. This is usually not necessary in dealing with

students who live in town, but it is very necessary for those students who ride a school

bus. The teacher should also indicate the approximate length of detention, so parents can

arrange for the child’s ride home from school. Parents must be notified by phone or note

that their child will be retained after school, the date they will be kept, and the reason for

retaining the child. If a student cannot spend the scheduled night or nights, it will be their


29

responsibility to notify the teacher and to make arrangements to spend the next available

night.

Gifts – Unless approved by the principal, staff members shall not give gifts to any

student or class of students when the gifts arise out of a class or school-related activity.

Employees are prohibited from receiving personal gifts from vendors or sales

representatives. Premiums resulting from sales projects sponsored by the school shall

become the property of the school.

Solicitations – Solicitation of Employees, unless permission is granted by the appropriate

supervisor, by any vendor, student, other school district employee, or patron during

normal duty hours is prohibited.

Solicitation by employees, during the school day or on school property, to sell or

endeavor to influence any student or school employee to buy any product, article,

instrument, service or other items which may directly or indirectly benefit the school

employee is prohibited.

No employee will engage in sales or solicitations on behalf of the school or use the

school name without the prior approval of the superintendent.

Relations with Students – Employees shall maintain relationships with students which

are conducive to an effective educational environment. While teachers and other staff

members should have a sincere interest in students as individuals, any staff-pupil

friendship or relationship must be on a teacher-pupil basis. Excessive informal and social

involvement with individual students give rise to charges of partiality and excessive

personal involvement. Personal relationships which extend beyond the teacher-pupil

relationship are not compatible with professional ethics, are potentially damaging to the

teacher’s ability to perform basic instructional duties, and could be grounds for

termination. Employees shall not have any interaction of a sexual nature with any

student at any time regardless of the student’s age or status.

Tutoring for Pay – Teachers shall not receive pay for tutoring or private instruction at

school unless approved in advance by the Board.

Distribution of Materials – Materials from sources outside of the district may not be

distributed on school grounds without prior permission from the principal. Examples of

outside materials include, but are not limited to political materials, special interest

materials and advertisements. The principal shall determine the time, place, and manner

for materials distribution.

Posters – Posters approved by the principal may be displayed in designated areas.

Personal Property – The district is not responsible for employee’s personal property and

does not provide insurance on employee’s personal property. If an employee’s personal


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property is broken, damaged or stolen while the employee is on the job, repair or

replacement is the employee’s responsibility.


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TEACHING AND LEARNING

CLASSROOM TEACHERS:

The task of classroom teachers are varied and very important. There may be too many

tasks to try to list but it would include the following:

Having a prepared lesson plan for each class session;

Being sure the lesson plan follows the goals and objectives for the subject area

and school district;

Preparation of instructional materials to use with lesson plans;

Keeping attendance records; evaluating students work and progress;

Preparing evaluation reports for students and their parents / guardians;

Conducting parent – teacher conferences as scheduled by the school or as need

dictates;

Ordering materials as needed for instruction;

Preparing and filing reports requested by the administration;

Providing a pleasant, courteous, friendly, safe, and supportive classroom for all

students;

Abiding by time schedules established for the work days and being on time for

meetings;

Cooperating with other faculty members and staff;

Providing needed attention for illness or injuries and reporting those to the office;

Accepting responsibility for supervision of students;

Being a willing participant in faculty meetings and sharing ideas for school

improvement or activities;

Respecting and maintaining all information provided in confidence;

Being an example for the students and other staff and personnel in professional

and personal living;

Preparing an annual inventory of classroom materials and equipment;


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Supporting the policies of the Board of Education and communicating these to

students, parents, patrons, and community;

Knowing the building and district “Mission Statement” and how it affects the

subject area lesson planning and instruction;

Providing regular, timely feedback to students on assignments and projects;

Providing a variety of learning experiences and presentations;

Keeping up to date on teaching methods, procedures, and research;

Planning and carrying out special events and activities to motivate the student and

to help keep their interest in learning high;

Work with special needs students and the special education program and

personnel to provide an educationally appropriate curriculum;

Know and be aware of Federal or State regulations which effect the field of

education and the work done in schools.


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CHARACTERISTICS - Teachers in the LeRoy-Gridley school district are responsible

for complying with the following expectation profile

Classroom

Provide a cooperatively developed, student oriented, and attractive learning

environment;

Create an environment conducive to good mental health through consistent, fair

handling of classroom problems;

Exhibit compassion and maintain communication with each student;

Maintain order in the classroom with special emphasis on growth in self

discipline;

Provide a climate of respect of others and their individuality;

Recognize the range of abilities and needs within the classroom;

Provide for differentiated assignments to better foster the intellectual growth and

understanding and abilities of students;

Use proper diagnostic tools in planning and aids to the skills and abilities of the

pupils;

Adjust teaching procedures and aids to the skills and abilities of the pupils;

Make effective use of regular and supplementary materials including books,

pamphlets, library collections, and reference materials;

Make appropriate use of teaching aids and resources such as films, listening

centers, tapes, field trips, and resource people;

Teach fundamental skills according to the readiness and capabilities of the

students involved;

Encourage students to interpret and analyze materials rather than rote

memorization of facts; and

Seek help of proper personnel in assisting students in solving problems –

individuals such as guidance counselors, administrators, or other appropriate

personnel.


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Professional

Has a sincere interest in youngsters and in teaching;

Has a genuine interest in the profession of teaching and is willing to give of own

time for the good of students and the profession;

Show professional growth and contribution to service groups;

Is aware of new materials and methods;

Evaluates own strengths and weaknesses and builds on evaluations;

Is receptive to all practical suggestions;

Is approachable and sincerely attempts to implement ideas and concepts gained;

Works well with fellow teachers, sharing ideas and materials, and supporting

majority decisions;

Completes required reports and assignments promptly and efficiently;

Supports administrative decisions;

Protects information that is confidential;

Does not use a disproportionate amount of free time in a nonproductive way;

Is available to work with students before and after school and during unscheduled

periods when necessary;

Is aware of the social and economic structure of the community, the cultural

opportunities of the community, and the civic responsibilities and moral standards

of the community;

Is available for both scheduled and non-scheduled conferences with parents and

encourages home – school communications; and

Is aware of and actively supportive of the educational philosophy of the district.

Participates in school activities, sponsors group activities, is constantly aware that

teachers are perpetual examples to the youth with whom they associate and as

such their actions would reflect those qualities that are accepted as wholesome by

the citizens of the community.


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Personal

Shows adequate vitality for the job classification;

Uses good judgment in regard to attendance or non-attendance while ill;

Has a positive view of self and others;

Is calm and even tempered;

Shows poise in most situations;

Demonstrates maturity and positive attitude;

Is open minded;

Shows good grooming and is appropriately dressed for the assignment; and

Is friendly, has a sense of humor, is dependable, demonstrates promptness by

being punctual in arriving and staying until suggested time for leaving.

TEACHER CODE OF ETHICS

1. Be committed to your work. Do your best.

2. Preserve your dignity. Discipline is soon lost when you allow students to

become too well acquainted with you.

3. Do not be the roving Rover. Your place is in your classroom, and teachers

are urged to refrain from leaving their classrooms during class periods

unless absolutely necessary. It is unforgivable to visit other teachers

during class periods. Spend your preparation period in the building and in

your room

4. When confronted by parents, keep your self composure and never exhibit

anger. Losing your temper will only help the other person win and you

lose. Try to maintain friendly relations with parents in advance. Then

when difficulties arise, you have a common ground for understanding.

5. Yelling or loud talk to classes is not teaching.

6. Maintain good public relations and confidence and trust of the public. Be

a booster for your colleagues and for the school.

7. Be loyal to the administrators and the rules of the school and enforce all

school policies whether or not you agree with them personally.


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8. Insist that your students speak respectfully of other teachers, adults and

students in your presence. Do not allow them to criticize or gripe about a

teacher in your class. Refer to other teachers as “Mr.”, “Mrs.” Or “Miss”

in front of students and expect the same from your students.

9. Be adult in your dealings with students. They are embarrassed by a

teacher who tries to be one of the gang. Remember that you are failing

your students if you allow them to treat you too familiarly or

disrespectfully. You are an authority whom they must respect and obey.

10. Never make a statement you do not plan to carry out. Be consistent in

administering discipline and adhering to school rules. Be fair with the

students. Admit your errors and never play favorites. Give each student a

chance to participate according to their abilities. Be firm.

11. Do not interfere with nor try to change a disciplinary action of another

teacher. Do not sympathize with students who receive correction nor

instruct them to try to get the punishment changed if it interferes with

some other activity.

12. Sending a student to another class late, even with a pass should be a rare

exception. In an activity such as a field trip will take a class away from

other teachers, discuss what day will be convenient for the other teachers

and let them know far enough in advance to plan accordingly.

13. Be prompt to all classes and functions and set a good example for the

students.

14. Avoid prying in the students’ personal lives. Let students approach you if

they feel they need to talk with you. Make an appointment that will not

interfere with either their class or yours.

15. Keep students and parents confidences as long as there is no breach of

school policy. If you are told something that you cannot keep secret

because it must be dealt with, tell the person who told you what you plan

to do.

16. Be discreet about discussing your family or personal life in the classroom.

Avoid discussion of personal matters such as salaries with inappropriate

persons. Be careful about what is discussed in the office or elsewhere

with other school personnel when pupils are present. Do not discuss

confidential school matters with people outside of school.


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Relationship to Fellow Staff:

1. Defer to one another. There will be friction, of course. A large number of people

working together cannot move without some conflict. There may be things about

someone else you will not like, and by the way, there will be things about you that

others will not like. This is only human – it is only natural.

2. Do not criticize your fellow workers. Guard against this with everything you

have. Do not tolerate one member of the staff criticizing another member of the

staff. You need to take steps to stop it whenever and wherever you hear it.

3. Do not criticize the administration. Of course, there will be times when you will

disagree with the administration. When this disagreement gets sharp and severe

enough, you should meet with the administration. You will not help yourself, the

administration, or the school by criticizing the administration openly. You should

stop criticism as soon as you hear it. If you have a complaint, do talk with the

administration about it.

4. Here is a good rule to remember: “We will produce people like ourselves” if we

are critical, we are going to produce critical students. One time in a school a

certain administrator became very stubborn and rebellious. The first thing he

knew he had a number of rebellious students on his hands and could not cope with

them. He wondered why. The board realized the problem was that he had shown

a rebellious spirit, and this had been quickly reflected in the lives of the students.

Criticism will be reflected in the lives of others and in your life.

5. Do not gripe.

6. Endeavor to be loyal to the school and the work. In the school and out you must

be loyal. Disloyalty on the part of faculty and staff will hurt the school more than

anything else.

7. Develop staff spirit. In other words, look for opportunities to do things together

and to work together. It is good to compliment one another.

8. Be careful of jealousies. An administration sincerely should not want to play

favorites, but teachers will begin to think sometime that someone is being shown

some favoritism. Guard against this.

9. Manifest unselfishness to teach others. You will be amazed what this will do to

promote good will.

10. Realize that you are equal to each other. Some have administrative responsibility,

but they are not superior to anyone else. We are all on the same plane.


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11. Be very careful of showing disagreements in front of others. Do not flash a

temper at each other. Be careful not to say caustic, biting remarks that hurt and

cut. These can send somebody home sick at heart. You may never realize what

you have done, but you might have hurt a faulty member and in turn injured some

pupils.

12. Be considerate of others on the team. Realize we each have weaknesses. Simple

consideration of others will solve many problems. Always be grateful. Be

careful to say “Thank You”.

13. Be discreet. Be careful primarily in working with members of the opposite sex.

Watch out about gossiping.

14. Be mature. Some of you are young – recently out of college. Some of you do not

have children of your own. In order to help parents put confidence in your

judgment, it would be wise for you to seek counsel on some issues.

15. Give one another the benefit of the doubt. If you wonder why someone has done

something, you can let your mind play tricks on you and decide the person did the

wrong thing. Check it out! Until you can check on it, give the other person the

benefit of the doubt. If you go around expecting others of your co-laborers to do

wrong, you are going to hurt yourself and the entire team.

MISCELLANEOUS TEACHER ITEMS

1. Teachers shall not give keys to students. Doing this could result in the removal of

keys from teacher’s possession.

2. Do not leave money or valuables in your desk or room at any time.

3. Do not request a student from another teacher’s class except in cases of

emergency and only if approved through the principal’s office.

4. Teachers working in the building after school hours are responsible for turning

out the lights and locking the doors. Lock the door as you enter the building.

5. Do not plan parties, refreshments, etc for your classroom.

6. Instruct the students of your classes with fire drill regulations and fire drill

routines, and be sure the regulations are posted in your room. Also review

tornado drill procedures. State law requires one fire drill per month and three

tornado drills per year. Do not allow running or pushing. Teachers are required

to participate in the drills and should carry grade books with them, close the

classroom door behind them, and be prepared to account for all children under

their supervision.


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7. Start each class on time with a roll check, checking students absent and students

returning from an absence.

8. Athletic and activity practices are limited as follows: No Sunday practices; No

Wednesday night practices unless prior approval has been obtained; no Saturday

practices unless prior approval from the principal has been obtained. A practice

time schedule will be developed by the administration and coaches AND will be

adhered to by all coaches.

9. Sponsors of activities are expected to take complete charge of that activity. All

activities are to be well sponsored and supervised. Sponsors should arrive at

activities well in advance of the scheduled time to ensure proper supervision of

students when they arrive.

10. All teachers and students are to be in attendance at assemblies.

11. If a student should become ill while in class, send them (along with another

student) to the office immediately.

12. In case of student injury notify the office immediately. You should be extremely

careful of moving an injured student and above all do not attempt to treat or

diagnose an injury. Use only those first aid measures for which you have training.

Do not give any medication – not even aspirin for headaches.

13. Be sure that all monies handled by you are receipted and turned in at the office.

Students should pay for materials before they are take them

14. Students shall not be in the building before and / or after school unless supervised

by an instructor.

Evaluations – The Board approved policy and instrument governing evaluation of

certified employees is filed in the district office with the Clerk of the Board. Evaluation

documents on individual employees shall be available to the superintendent, other

administrators under whose supervision the certified employee works and others

authorized by law.

Parent – Teacher Conferences: Formal Parent – Teacher conferences are scheduled

twice a year on select days after school hours. These conferences are held so that parents

can become better acquainted with their children’s teachers, to discuss the students

progress and to clarify the schools programs. Other conferences may be scheduled by

individual teachers as needed to keep parents and students informed as to student

progress and needs. Since these conferences are held after school hours the Friday

following the conferences has been designated as a no school day in compensation for the

hours worked by staff during conference time.


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Guidelines for an Effective Parent – Teacher Conference:

1. Conference Preparation

a. Look over the cumulative records of your students

b. Outline the conference with the parents remembering that you have only a

short time at these regularly scheduled conferences

c. Have some specific suggestions ready to give in any area of study or

personality needing improvement

d. Plan something good to point out about each student. Whoever the

student is, he or she is precious. A good technique to use is to begin the

conference on a positive note and to end the conference on a positive note.

2. Purposes of Conferences

a. Appraise the home situation

b. Appraise parents evaluation of school and student

c. Give opportunity for parents to air feelings and concerns

d. Get to know the parents personally

e. Represent the student’s point of view to the parent (with limitations)

f. Get a clear picture of what progress you see socially, academically, and

personally

3. Areas to discuss

a. Grades and how parents feel about them

b. Personal attributes that stand out

c. Personal interests of the student

d. Questions about any aspect of the whole school program that may be of

concern to the parent

e. Parents knowledge and understanding of their child

4. Good possible leading questions

a. What changes or growth have you seen in the student at home?

b. How do you feel about the grades he or she received?

c. Are there any areas of school life or activity about which you have

questions or comments?

d. Have there been any changes at school that have been helpful or

disconcerting this year in comparison with other years?

Staff members MUST BE WELL PREPARED,ORGANIZED, AND WELL DRESSED

FOR THESE CONFERENCES.

Curriculum: Board approved district goals and learning objectives shall be used by the

staff as the basis for developing and implementing instructional programs.


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Instructional Materials: All textbooks, videos, software, and other instructional

materials used in the district must:

Support the district’s instructional goals and learning objectives; and

Meet all copyright and fair use guidelines.

Videos and other instructional materials may not be used in the classroom solely for

recreational purposes.

Lesson Plans: The lesson plan is a valuable tool when used properly. Not only should it

serve your purposes, but it will be used by the administration to remain informed on the

activities of the class and / or orientation of substitute teachers. It should contain

information that will allow another person to effectively teach your class. Each teacher

shall develop, maintain and follow lesson plans which conform to the Board approved

curriculum, the district’s educational goals and the expected student learning outcomes.

The building administrator my request that teachers submit weekly lesson plans for the

upcoming week. Lesson plans should always be readily available for administrators or

substitute teachers. These plans should contain the topic to be studied, assignment

references and a list of materials to be used. Also included shall be an up to date class

list, a class schedule, and the teacher’s daily class schedule. The principal will maintain

the lesson plans in a three-ring binder. It is strongly recommended that the first

set of lesson plans include the name and publisher of the textbook, workbook, and

supplemental materials.

Homework: Homework shall be assigned as needed to reinforce lessons introduced in

the classroom. It should be stressed and enforced that homework is due on time.

The purpose of homework is to develop sound study habits, to give opportunity for

enrichment, to complete unfinished class work, to give students and parents opportunities

to work together, provide a means to keep parents informed of their children’s progress,

and to help students set long range goals.

Homework that is drill in nature should not be given to an entire class. Primary grade

children need time for play, relaxation, and enjoyable interaction with parents.

Homework should not interfere with this needed activity. In addition, the busy schedules

and sometimes confused lifestyles of families preclude the school’s control of variables

which affect the quality of the work.


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TEACHING AND LEARNING

Committees – Teachers will frequently be asked to serve on committees, which will be

formed for the improvement of some phase of the school’s program.

Desirable Services – There is no place in LeRoy-Gridley USD 245 for the teacher with

the idea of giving the minimum of service. A growing, devoted teacher will always give

more than the minimum required. In recent years, the public has examined closely the

curricular offerings of our schools. The most important phase of our work is in the

effective instruction of our children, and much is expected of us in the way of productive

results in the classroom. Let us discharge that duty in a constructive and successful way.

You will either hinder or promote your general improvement within the profession by

your action and your work.

The Board does not demand church attendance or membership in outside organization.

However many people do attend church regularly and civic clubs offer a splendid

opportunity for services in the community. Make friends outside the teaching profession.

Try to avoid developing a “teacher clique.”

The public is always asking about the school and their children in the school. It is your

duty and privilege to know and answer intelligently concerning problems about your

school. You are the best public relations worker in the school system; we are counting on

you. Keep in mind that school problems should be discussed in school and not treated as

common gossip. Also remember that what is confidential must stay confidential no

matter what the situation.

Teachers Daily Schedule: Teachers are expected to arrive at school fifteen (15) minutes

before school takes up and remain at least fifteen 15) minutes after school is dismissed.

If you are to be late in the morning or must leave early, please notify the office. The

teacher should always be in the classroom before the class arrives. All teachers shall

remain on duty until all buses have departed at the end of the school day or at such other

times that the principal shall determine. Teachers requesting students stay after school

shall stay with them unless other arrangements have been made to supervise the students

that are remaining at the school. Teachers should not leave the school premises during

hours without permission from the principal.


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Teacher’s Planning Schedule: Planning is an important part of the teacher’s daily

schedule. The time provided for this includes:

Prior to school taking up in the morning

Planning periods in the class schedule and

After school is dismissed in the afternoon

The amount of time each teacher will have each day for planning may vary. The teacher

must work at making this planning time useful and productive. It is also important for

teachers to be considerate of other teacher’s planning time.

Teachers should plan well in advance when preparing materials. Students ARE NOT to

be left alone in class so that a teacher can run off tests or study materials. This work

should be completed prior to or after school or during planning times.

Hall Supervision: There is an every present need for hall supervision between classes,

before, during and after school. The presence of teachers in the hall is the best deterrent

to most forms of misconduct. Standing near the classroom door a teacher may observe

and be observed from both classroom and hall. A teacher’s responsibility for student

supervision does not end in their classroom. The manner in which a student conducts

himself / herself in the halls and on the way to class may well affect classroom behavior.

If a class enters in an orderly manner it will very likely give you a good start.

The opposite is true in that a rowdy group must be calmed down before constructive

teaching may take place. Each teacher must assume his / her fair share of hall

supervision if the general conduct of the students is to remain satisfactory.

Repetition of minor infractions is to be reported verbally to the principal. All major

infractions are to be reported verbally and in writing to the Principal’s office.

All teachers are also responsible for student conduct and general supervision throughout

the building and on school grounds. This also holds true for activities off of the school

grounds and at school activities. Student conduct and the control of it is a team effort.

Benefits and Compensation:

1. Pay Day – Pay day will be the Tuesday following the Board of Education meeting

which is the second Monday of each month.

2. Lump Sum Payments – Upon written authorization from any certified employee

subject to the continuing contract law, the Board shall pay the balance of the

person’s contract compensation for the school in one payment not later than June

30 and the completion of all contract obligations. The authorization shall be filed

with the Clerk of the Board not later than the last day of the school year in and for

which the balance payment is first authorized. Once authorized, the lump sum

payment will continue each year until the election is revoked in writing by the

certified employee.


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3. Loyalty Oath – As required by current law, all employees must sign a loyalty oath

and file the oath with the Clerk before beginning employment and to be eligible

for a paycheck.

4. Reimbursement / Travel Expenses – The Board shall provide reimbursement for

expenses incurred in travel related to the performance and duties of the district’s

employees when approved in advance by the superintendent. Mileage expenses

for travel will be paid at the Board approved rate. Requests for reimbursement

shall have the following attached: receipts for transportation, parking, hotels and

motels, meals and other expenses for which receipts are ordinarily available.

5. Sick Leave – All certified employees of LeRoy-Gridley Unified School District

No. 245 will be granted 10 days of sick leave per year. Sick leave may be

accumulated up to 60 days. Employees who are under sick leave will draw full

pay at contracted rates. After sick leave time has been exhausted, an employee’s

pay will be deducted at 1/176th

per day missed. Sick leave days are actual

working days on a basis of five days per week. The conditions of using sick leave

are covered in the Board Policy Book. The district will buy back any unused sick

leave at the end of each year for those who have accumulated the sixty day. The

buyback rate will be at one-half the current substitute teacher pay.

6. Other Leave – Each teacher will be granted two days to conduct personal

business. The personal business day will be used at the teacher’s discretion. The

personal business day is not accumulative. Teachers shall be granted two

professional day leave with administrative approval. Professional days are not

accumulative.

7. Kansas Public Employees Retirement System – Employees who meet the

qualifications for the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS)

must become a member. An employee contribution as determined by current law

will be made each pay date. Requests for information or questions about

procedures should be directed to the Superintendent or to the Clerk of the Board.

8. Workers Compensation – Employees must notify the employer within ten (10)

days of an accident or the claim may be barred. Additional information about

your rights and responsibilities under workers compensation may be obtained

from your supervisor or the district office. Benefits are for personal injury from

an accident or occupational disease arising out of and in the course of

employment with the district. Injuries which occur during recreational or social

events under the circumstances where the employee is under no duty to attend,

and where the injury did not result from the performance of tasks related to

normal job duties are not covered under workers compensation.


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DISTRICT PROCEDURES

1. Board Policy – Employees shall be familiar with and follow all policies and

regulations established by the Board of Education.

2. Recruitment – The superintendent will recruit personnel to fill existing or

proposed vacancies and recommend the Board hire the most qualified candidate.

3. Contract Procedure – The offer of an employment contract or renewal of an

employment contract shall be presented in duplicate. The certified employee shall

sign and return both copies within the time period designated by the

superintendent. Upon receipt of the signed copies, the contract will be presented

to the Board for approval.

4. Assignment and Transfer – The Board retains the right to assign, reassign, and

transfer certified personnel.

5. Resignation – The Board shall consider any certified employees resignation which

is submitted to the Board in writing. The Board may accept resignations from

employees under contract when the resignation will be in the best interests of the

district.

HEALTH

Administration of Medications – The supervision of any medications shall be in strict

compliance with the rules and regulations of the Board. District employees may not

dispense or administer any medications, including prescription and nonprescription

drugs, to students except as outlined in Board policy. Teachers will not be required to

give medication to students, unless they have been properly trained to do so, and have an

agreement to do so and a record of training on file. Medication given to students during

the school day will be done by persons who are properly trained, including when

attending field trips or co-curricular activities awry from school. Do not give students

any medication that has not been provided by the student or student’s parents. This

includes aspirin or other over the counter pain medications.

Asbestos – USD 245 has been cleared of all asbestos material. If an employee believes

that material containing asbestos exists in any school building he / she should notify the

superintendent immediately.

Bloodborne Pathogens – The exposure control plan for bloodborne pathogens is

available for review from any of the school offices or from the Clerk of the Board. It is

very important to know that you should never handle items that may carry bloodborne

pathogens unprotected and that you should wash up thoroughly immediately after

exposure.


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Communicable Disease – Whenever an employee has been diagnosed by a physician as

having a communicable disease, the employee shall report the diagnosis and nature of the

disease to the superintendent so a proper reporting may be made as required by statute.

An employee afflicted with a communicable disease dangerous to the public health shall

be required to withdraw from active employment for the duration of the illness in order to

give maximum health protection to other district employees and to students.

The employee shall be allowed to return to duty upon recovery from the illness, when

authorized by the employee’s physician or by a health assessment team.

The Board reserves the right to require a written statement from the employee’s physician

indicating the employee is free from all communicable disease symptoms.

Hazardous Waste – When hazardous waste materials produced in a class, or is otherwise

located in the district, its disposal shall be in accordance with state and federal laws, rules

and regulations.

No employee shall bring hazardous material to school without the prior approval of the

principal. Such material shall be in an appropriate container and properly labeled. If an

employee discovers waste material which is, or may be hazardous, he / she should notify

his / her supervisor immediately.

Hazardous waste includes but is not limited to waste which are flammable, corrosive,

infectious, highly reactive, or toxic. Hazardous waste must be placed in an appropriate

container affixed with a hazardous waste label which lists the specific contents.

Unlabeled containers whose contents are undetermined, which may contain hazardous

substances, shall not be put in trash containers. All hazardous wastes must be properly

labeled and stored appropriately until they can be disposed of properly. Placing them in

trash containers or the sewer system is not an appropriate disposal method.

Health Examinations – As a condition to entering or continuing employment, certified

employees must present a district approved form to the Clerk, completed by a health care

professional, which states “that there is no evidence of physical conditions that would

conflict with the health, safety, or welfare of the pupils; and that freedom from

tuberculosis has been established. If at any time there is reasonable cause to believe any

employee is suffering from an illness detrimental to the health of the pupils, the school

board may require a new certification of health”. (K.S.A. 72-5213)

The Board reserves the right to have any employee examined at any time by a physician

of the Board’s choice to determine if the employee is able to fulfill and perform the

obligations of employment and to abide by and implement the policies and rules of the

Board. The costs of any examination required by the Board will be borne by the Board.


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STUDENT INFORMATION

Graduation Requirements – Careful permanent records are kept on each student in the

office, including attendance, grades, and important test scores. It is important from the

first term on to strive for a good scholastic, character, service, and attendance record.

Your entire future may depend on the record you establish at USD 245.

Each student must be enrolled full time and carry at least six subjects. Basic subject

requirements for graduation include:

Four units of English

Four Units of Social Studies

One Unit of Computer Science

One unit of Foreign Language

Three units of Mathematics

Three units of Science

One unit of Physical Education / Health

One unit of Fine Arts

The remaining units will be made up with electives to total twenty-four (24) units for

graduation.

Qualified Admission Standards: Under the provisions of House Bill No. 2668 a

graduate of an accredited Kansas High School is entitled to admission to a State Board of

Regents’ Institution if the student has met one of the following entrance requirements:

Completed the pre-college curriculum prescribed by the State Board of Regents

with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Take notice that the

pre-college curriculum consists of:

Four units of English

Three units of Mathematics

Three units of Social Studies

Three units of Natural Sciences

One unit of Computer Technology OR

Attain a score of 21 or higher on the ACT, OR

Rank in the upper one third of the High School graduating class.

Each Regents institution shall establish a policy permitting not more than 10% of

admissions as exceptions. The 10% exceptions shall only apply to bona fide residents of

Kansas.

Other provisions of the Standards Act allow the admission of community college

transfers and students who receive a minimum score on the GED or attain the age of 21.


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Attendance (Students): Daily attendance records shall be maintained for each student in

the school. The primary responsibility for recording attendance shall be assigned to the

teacher on forms prescribed by the superintendent. Each teacher shall indicate on a daily

basis to the attendance officer the names and times that students are absent.

Interrogation and Investigation of Students – No one may interrogate or investigate a

student on school grounds without the permission of the principal.

Searches of Students and Property –If a certified staff member believes there is a need

to search a student or property, he / she shall contact the principal.

Searches of students or property shall be conducted in accordance with the rules

approved by the Board. Teachers shall not search students or property. No law

enforcement officer shall search students or property without a search warrant.

Building principals are authorized to search students or property if there is reason to

believe that district policies, rules or directives have been violated. All searches by the

principal shall be carried out in the presence of another adult witness.

Release of Students from School During the Day – Teachers shall not release a student

from school during the school day. A student seeking release from school shall be sent to

the principal’s office to seek the principal’s permission and follow the designated sign

out procedures.

Teachers shall not allow students to run errands requiring the student to leave school

grounds during the school day.


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STUDENT CONDUCT

Student Handbook – All certified staff shall read, be familiar with, and enforce the rules

and regulations established in the student handbook.

Student Behavior Code – Certified staff shall consistently enforce the behavior code.

Hazing and Initiations – The board is committed to providing a positive and productive

learning and working environment. Hazing, harassment, intimidation, menacing, or

bullying by students, staff or third parties is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated

in the district.

Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to

discipline, up to and including expulsion. Staff whose behavior is found to be in

violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal. Third

parties whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to

appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the superintendent or board.

Individual may also be referred to law enforcement officials.

Discipline Procedures -- Each teacher shall develop and submit for approval classroom

discipline procedures.

All procedures for classroom discipline must be approved by the principal, explained by

the teacher to the students at the beginning of the school year, and at other times as

appropriate, and filed in the principal’s office.

When a student presents a challenge or is a discipline problem, it is advisable and most

effective if the teacher can take care of the situation. If the student needs to be sent out of

any classroom, he/she should report to the office. The teacher will then be contacted

about the matter for additional information. It is advisable for the teacher to make sure

that the student has indeed reported to the office when directed to do so.

Good discipline is one of the results of good team work among the staff. When a student

needs disciplining in the halls or in the lunchroom, the teacher that is nearest the situation

should handle the problem. The principal is willing to assist the teacher with the

discipline problems at any time.

It is advised that teachers take a firm stand with their classes the very first day. State

your policies for the class and stick to them. It is recommended that students be given a

written copy of each teacher’s classroom policies on the first day of school. An act of

disobedience should not be taken as a personal issue with the teacher; it is usually a

rebellion against a situation or perhaps an attempt to gain recognition.


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Things which can be done to help keep discipline problems to a minimum:

1. Use personal experience as a guide in identifying discipline problems.

2. Let the student begin free and clear in each new situation.

3. Do not label the student good or bad on the basis of what kind of a student their

brother or sister was when they were in your class. Remember that each student

is different and will react differently to comments and discipline.

4. Talk informally with the students at the very outset of the year about classroom

procedures and expectations – be specific!

5. Begin lessons promptly. Do not allow students to use class time to discuss other

students or teachers. The grades given by a teacher, the assignments given, the

punishment rendered, etc, are the business of the student, teacher and principal.

Do a good job of teaching the students while they are in your class -- this is more

than a full time job.

6. Keep your prejudices to yourself while in the classroom. The use of ethnic or

racial nicknames is never acceptable in the classroom.

7. Be enthusiastic. If you are interested in the subject which you are teaching, your

enthusiasm will carry over to your students. Very few teachers can do an

effective and enthusiastic job of teaching while seated at their desk.

8. Try to provide each student with some measure of success. This is a very difficult

task, but it is possible.

9. Don’t be afraid to admit an error.

10. Make all assignments reasonable and clear. This can usually be done at the

beginning of the hour rather than as the dismissal bell is ringing.

11. Do something special and out of the routine occasionally.

12. Be respectful of property, authority, and individuals.

13. Be consistent with discipline problems and handle immediately, or as soon as

possible without causing undue interruption of education.

14. Be positive. It is easier to teach and to relate to all situations if you do so in a

positive manner. Do not be negative too often. Tell students they have done a

good job when they have. Don’t always criticize.

15. Miscellaneous – be alert; don’t try to buy popularity; don’t talk above noise; don’t

do things for students which they can do for themselves; and remember that

discipline really starts with the little problems.

16. The classroom is for education, not for recreation and games. Make the

environment in your room one for learning. Keep it under control and emphasis

learning every day.


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ELIGIBILITY FOR ACTIVITIES

If the student is failing in one subject or has two or more D’s, the student will be

determined ineligible for at least one week and be ineligible for the following week

as determined by a weekly grade report

Students will be ineligible if, at the end of the week he/she is failing in one subject or has

two or more D’s. If the student is not passing the required number of subjects, the

student will be determined ineligible for at least one week and be ineligible for the

following week as determined by a weekly eligibility list.

The student will become eligible at the next grade check (last day of the week) as the

student meets eligibility standards on a weekly basis, unless in conflict with the

requirements of the State of Kansas or the Kansas State High School Activities

Association.

Eligibility will be determined on Friday or the last day of the school week and will take

effect the following week (Monday through Sunday). The principal will check eligibility

at 1:00 p.m. on the last day of the week and that determination will be final.

If a student is determined through standard evaluation processes and instruments to be

ineligible for special education services but intellectually unable to meet and pass

requirements at the student’s current grade level, consideration of eligibility will be

given as to whether the student is working at the student’s ability level. If, based on a

week to week evaluation, the psychologist and principal determine that the student is

working to full capability, the student may be determined to be eligible as long as this

determination is not contrary to other regulations.

This activity eligibility policy will include the following: plays, athletics, cheerleading,

music, forensics, drill team, pep club, scholars bowl, student council, dances including

but not limited to Homecoming and Prom and any activity sponsored by the KSHSAA

where academic standards apply.

FINAL STATEMENTS

This handbook is not an employee contract. Further, this handbook is not to be

considered as either an expressed or implied contract between the school district

and the employee.

Anytime the superintendent is mentioned in this manual, his / her designee is

implied.

As a condition of employment, employees agree to follow rules and regulations

which have been adopted by the Board.


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SCHOOL CLOSURE AND OTHER INFORMATION NOTIFICATION

This year we are using a system through Coffey County. If you wish to receive

notification of school closings or other notifications during the school year as well as

weather advisories you will need to register at the link below. If you do not sign up you

will not receive these notices.

Our link to the notification system is:

https://www.irisdispatch.com/users/enroll/dsp_enroll.cfm?org_id=1615

after www is a dot

after dispatch is a dot

after dsp is an underscore _

after the second enroll is a dot

after org is an underscore _

.

https://www.irisdispatch.com/users/enroll/dsp_enroll.cfm?org_id=1615

LEROY-GRIDLEY USD 245 TEACHERS HANDBOOK · LEROY-GRIDLEY USD 245 TEACHERS HANDBOOK 1 ......

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